Heartwood School Student Handbook

Mission Statement 

All students will achieve their greatest potential in a climate where there are high expectations. 

Vision 

Heartwood will provide a safe, educational environment and culture that will lead to excellence in all endeavors and outcomes. 

Core Values/Beliefs 

• All students should be given the opportunity to learn and succeed.
• The goal for each student is to reach his/her potential.
• All individuals have value, worth, and the right to be treated with respect and dignity.
• All individuals have the right to privacy, their opinion, and personal safety.
• All students have the right to have their individual needs addressed.
• All students have the right to have options.
• All students should have learning opportunities in their least-restrictive environment.
• Students learn in different ways and at different rates.
• All staff can create conditions for learning.
• Families, staff and the community work as a team to prepare students for success in the global community.
• The mission and vision are responsibilities we all share.
• We strive for greatness!

It is the policy of Ingham ISD to provide an equal education opportunity for all students. 

Any person who believes they have has been discriminated against on the basis of their race, color, disability, religion, gender or national origin while at school or a school activity, should immediately contact the Skills Center District's Compliance Officer. 

Susan Tinney Assistant 
Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources and Organizational Development 
517.244.1289

Complaints will be investigated in accordance with the procedure as described in Board Policy 2260. Any student making a complaint or participating in a school investigation will be protected from any threat or retaliation. The Compliance Officer can provide additional information concerning equal access to educational opportunity.

Non-Discrimination Policy 

It is the policy of Ingham Intermediate School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender/sex, age, disability, height, weight, marital status, or lack of English language speaking skills, in its programs, services or activities. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies: Director of Human Resources, 2630 West Howell Road, Mason, Ml, 48854 517.244.1289.

The Ingham ISD Board of Education recognizes and values parents and families as children's first teachers and decision-makers in education. The Board believes student learning is more likely to occur when there is an effective partnership between the school and the student's parents and family. Such a partnership between the home and school and greater involvement of parents and family members in the education of their children generally result in higher academic achievement, improved student behavior and reduced absenteeism. This policy shall serve as the district policy, as well as the Parent and Family Engagement policy for each school in the District. 

The Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), as amended by the Every Student Succeeds Act of 2015 (ESSA), defines the term "parent" to include a legal guardian or other person standing in loco parentis (such as a grandparent or stepparent with whom the child lives, or a person who is legally responsible for the child's welfare). 

The term "family" is used in order to include a child's primary caregivers, who are not the biological parents such as foster caregivers, grandparents, other family members and responsible adults who play significant roles in providing for the well-being of the child. 

Family engagement is a collaborative relationship between families, educators, providers and partners to support and improve the learning, development and health of every learner. The principles of family engagement include relationships as the cornerstone, positive learning environments, efforts tailored to address all families, so all learners are successful, purposeful and intentional efforts that clearly identify learner outcomes and engaging and supporting families as partners in their child's education. 

If you would like information regarding Ingham ISD administration names and contact numbers, please contact the Heartwood School office. Likewise, if you would like contact information for Heartwood School staff, we encourage you to contact the office or visit the Ingham ISD website. 

Parent Involvement

The Board is committed to communicating with parents at a level and in a language they can understand. The Board through this policy directs the establishment of a parent involvement plan by which a school-parent partnership can be established and provided to the caregiver of each child in the district. The following activities are included in the district's Parent Involvement Plan. 

• regular home-school communication
• provision of a parent/student handbook
• parent support activities
• multiple opportunities for student progress reporting
• parent volunteer opportunities
• involvement in decision making about student educational needs
• participation in school functions or events
• parent/teacher conferences

Visitors 

Heartwood has many visitors throughout the school year and we appreciate the value this gives to our program and students. All visitors shall sign in at the main office, introduce themselves, and put on a visitor badge so building staff know the process was followed. Once signed in, we ask visitors to wait at the window while office personnel contact the appropriate staff member to give direction. 

We encourage parents to visit/observe their students at school, but also work diligently to respect the continuity and integrity of instructional time. Please contact the teacher in advance to set up a time for an observation. If you are coming in to volunteer or observe in a classroom, office staff will contact the teacher to assure they are in the classroom and that it is a good time to come down. Meetings with Heartwood staff need to be arranged during non-student hours or other predetermined and agreed upon times. 

All visitors will be expected to abide by the same code of conduct as indicated for students in this manual which includes self-respect, respect for others, respect for property and appropriate behavior that allows everyone an equal opportunity to learn. 

Volunteers

There is always a need for an "extra pair of hands" at Heartwood School. If you are interested in volunteering or know someone who would be interested, please call the school office or contact your student's teacher. The minimum age for volunteers is 13 years. The district conducts a background check on volunteers who attend off campus events with students, as well as volunteers who participate in some types of activities within the building. Volunteer background check forms are available in the school office. 

Questions & Concerns 

Parents, guardians and home supervisors are urged to contact the staff person most directly involved with any concern or question they may have about their student's educational program. When a question arises, it is generally advisable to first make contact with your student's classroom teacher. If resolution is not reached, the school principal should be contacted next. If there is still no resolution, the information should be shared with the following- in order of preferred contact: the special education director, superintendent, and Board of Education. Pertinent names and numbers are located on the Ingham ISD website. 

Early Dismissal

No student will be allowed to leave school prior to dismissal time without a written request signed by the parent or a person whose signature is on file in the school office or the parent coming to the school office to request the release. No student will be released to a person other than a custodial parent(s) without written permission signed by the custodial parent(s) or guardian(s). Parents who are picking up students must wait in the lobby until the classroom is contacted and should not go directly to classrooms. In most cases, classroom staff will bring the student down to the lobby to meet you. Early dismissals are not permitted between 2:30-2:45 pm on full days and 11:30-11:45 am on half days. arents who arrive for pick-up during this time must wait until the classroom comes down for dismissal. 

Enrolling in the School/Program Information/Classroom Assignment 

Heartwood School serves students identified with Cognitive Impairments (Cl), Severe Multiple Impairments (SXI) and Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) from school districts throughout Ingham County. 

Students at Heartwood School range in age from 3 years through age 26. Financial support for the facility comes from the Ingham County special education millage, state reimbursements and federal monies. 

Students from Ingham County districts are first evaluated by their local district for special education services. After this evaluation, an Individualized Educational Program (IEP) meeting is held. If it has been determined by the IEP team that the resident district is not an appropriate placement, the student may be placed at Heartwood School. Classroom placement is determined by the administration with input from staff and parents. 

A student may also be enrolled without an IEP meeting, under State of Michigan Special Education Rule 22e (R340.1722e) where there is evidence of previous enrollment in a similar special education program from an out of county district. The 30-day placement requires parental or court-appointed guardian consent, and an IEP meeting must be scheduled within 30 school days of the start of the placement. 

Withdrawal from School 

Any family who wishes to withdraw their child from the school should contact the principal or the local special education director from their district. 

Scheduling and Assignment 

Classroom schedules are provided to each student at the beginning of the school year or upon enrollment. Schedules are based on the student's needs and available class space. Any changes in a student's schedule should be handled through the Heartwood School office. Any variation will be discussed in an IEP setting. 

Foreign students and foreign-exchange students (from recognized and approved student programs) are eligible for admission on the same basis as other non-resident students. 

Individuals with Disabilities 

The American's with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act provide that no individual will be discriminated against on the basis of a disability. This protection applies not just to the student, but to all individuals who have access to the district's programs and facilities. 

A student can access special education services through the proper evaluation procedures. Parent involvement in this procedure is important and required by Federal (IDEA) and State law. Contact the building principal at 517.244.1401 to inquire about evaluation procedures and programs.

Emergency Procedures

Fire, Lock Down and Tornado Drills 

The school complies with all fire safety laws and will conduct fire drills in accordance with State law. Specific instructions on how to proceed will be provided to students by their teachers who will be responsible for safe, prompt and orderly evacuation of the building. The alarm signal for fire drills consists of flashing lights and an overhead announcement. 

Tornado drills will be conducted during the tornado season using the procedures provided by the State. The alarm signal for tornadoes is different from the alarm signal for fires and lock down drills and consists of an overhead announcement. 

Lock down drills in which the students are restricted to the interior of the school building and the building secured will occur a minimum of two (2) times each school year. The alarm system for a school lock down is different from the alarm system for fires and tornadoes and consists of an overhead announcement. 

Preparedness for Toxic and Asbestos Hazards 

The school is concerned for the safety of students and attempts to comply with all Federal and State Laws and Regulations to protect students from hazards that may result from industrial accidents beyond the control of school officials or from the presence of asbestos materials used in previous construction. A copy of the School District's "Preparedness for Toxic Hazard and Asbestos Hazard Policy" and asbestos management plan will be made available for inspection at the Board of Education offices upon request. 

Emergency Closings and Delays

Inclement Weather Procedure

Snow, Ice, Fog or Inclement Weather 

Student and staff safety are the top priority at Ingham ISD. In a review of current inclement weather procedures and protocols and in conversations with our local district superintendents and our Board of Education, the following is our process for inclement weather closing: 

• When Mason Public Schools closes, all Ingham ISD programs and services will close. NO staff will report to work, even if they physically work in a local district that is open.
• When a local district is closed but 115D remains open, transportation will not be provided for students within the closed resident district. Families or group homes may provide transportation. Absences are excused as an Act of God when local districts are closed.
• If a staff member works primarily in another district and the local district closes while Ingham ISD remains open, that staff member must report to work.

When a school closing happens, notice will occur in the following ways:

• Parents and staff members will receive notices via School Messenger.*
• Notice will be posted on the Ingham ISD website.
• Notice will be posted on the Ingham ISD Facebook Page.
• Notice will be broadcast on local radio and television stations.

When Ingham ISD and your local districts are open, buses will transport students to and from school and home. When a portion of the local districts are open, local district buses and Dean Transportation will transport students from those open districts to Heartwood School.

Emergency School Closing Situations (not weather related}

If emergency situations arise that are not weather related, Ingham ISD programs may choose to close. lf that does happen, the notification process will be handed in the same manner as outlined for weather cancellations. Ingham ISD may choose to close programs at their campus locations that do not have a dependency on the local district closing. 

In the event of a Pandemic

The Ingham ISD will strive in good faith and to the extent practicable, to meet the individual needs of all students with IEPs. This plan will be fluid in order to meet the unique needs of students and may be redesigned as we continue to support student learning in these unprecedented times.

* School Messenger is a notification system for parental outreach, emergency broadcasts, student attendance alerts and other communications for education. It is important that staff and parents/guardians keep their phone numbers and email address up to date in our records. If you have a change, please notify the Main Office as soon as possible, so the system remains current. In the event of a telephone call, due to school closing for inclement weather or an emergency situation, the caller ID will display the district's main phone number 517.676.1051. 

On rare occasions, it may be necessary to send students home after they have arrived at school due to severe weather or other catastrophic events. Every effort is made to alert the parent/guardian of this situation. No child is discharged without some contact having been made to individuals indicated on the student's enrollment card. 

Animals/Pets at School 

Heartwood School has an established "Animals/Pet at School" policy in order to reduce illness and accidents to staff and/or students by animals. Any requests must be approved by the administration and the school clinic. 

Service and Therapy animals that are approved/certified may be brought into the school to assist/be a part of the educational process. Parents may ask to have their child opt out of this experience. 

School Doc 

Heartwood School is partnering with School Doc to better serve our students and staff. SchoolDoc offers an electronic health record system for schools, and you can complete your student's health information electronically. We're excited to let you know your student's health information will save from year-to-year, so once you complete it in SchoolDoc this season, you won't have to start from scratch next year. 

The security and privacy of your student's health information is important. The SchoolDoc site is secure, encrypted and password protected. You can find additional information about SchoolDoc privacy and security information at SchoolDoc Security Policy.

After signing up, you will receive an "Invitation" email from SchoolDoc. 

• Click on the green "Accept Invite" link within the email to create your School Doc account.
• In the Confirm Email box, type your email address in order to confirm.
• In the Password box, type the password that you want to use.
• Click the CONTINUE button. After you log in, select your student's name, and click on the health profile link to complete your student's information.

For additional assistance, you can contact the Support Team or 734.629.5900.

Injury and Illness 

All injuries must be reported to a teacher or the office. If minor, the student will be treated and may return to class. If medical attention is required, the office will follow the school's emergency procedures. 

A student who becomes ill during the school day should request permission to go to the office. An appropriate adult in the office will determine whether or not the student should remain in school or go home. No student will be released from school without proper parental permission.

It is important to us that we do everything we can to keep our students as healthy as possible throughout the school year. We need your help to make this happen. Heartwood School follows the Ingham County Health Department (ICHD) guidelines for control of communicable diseases in schools. The following rules are in place to help prevent illnesses from spreading. They also allow your child adequate time to recover from being sick. We have many students with weakened immune systems, and they can become ill easily.

Your child must stay home from school if they have any of the following: 

Fever of 100 degrees or higher (taken by ear)

• Vomiting
• Chills
• Shortness of breath
• Muscle Pain
• Eye drainage
• Ear drainage
• Runny nose
• Coughing
• Headache
• Abnormal fatigue
• Open wounds that cannot be kept covered
• Rash (unless their doctor has found that it is not contagious).
• Two or more liquid stools
• Persistent coughing
• Untreated infection

If a student exhibit any of these symptoms during the school day, the following will occur:

• Parent/guardian/group home will be called by the nurse to pick the student up from school as soon as possible.
• The student shall remain home until symptoms and fever free for 24 hours without medicine. Dean Transportation will be suspended.
• If your child's illness requires an antibiotic, they must be on the antibiotic for 24 hours before returning to school.
• For particular communicable diseases, ICHD guidelines will be followed based on the individual diagnosis.

We understand some students experience illness in atypical ways. Students who are not acting like their typical selves may be experiencing signs of illness. In this case, we may contact a parent to discuss the possibility of illness. Additionally, some students experience signs of illness which are a manifestation of their disability. It is important that we err on the side of caution when we are uncertain. Documentation from a physician is required when symptoms of illness have an alternative medical explanation. A student with a physician-documented explanation of one of the above symptoms will be sent home if a secondary symptom from the above list is present. 

Students cannot be kept in the school clinic or be transported home on the bus when exhibiting these symptoms. The student must be removed from the school premises. Students are expected to be kept at home until symptoms are absent for 24 hours. If this occurs during school hours, Dean Transportation will be informed not to transport the student the following day. In this way, we hope to protect other high-risk students from infection and contagious diseases, and to ensure our students will be healthy and their school attendance high. 

The above procedures have been established to protect students in the school environment. Many of our students are medically fragile and protection of the health of all students is a priority. 

Control of Casual-Contact Communicable Disease and Pests 

Because a school has a high concentration of people, it is necessary to take specific measures when the health or safety of the group is at risk. The school's professional staff has the authority to remove or isolate a student who has been ill or has been exposed to a communicable disease or highly transient pest, such as lice. 

Specific diseases include diphtheria, scarlet fever, strep infections, whooping cough, mumps, measles, rubella and other conditions indicated by the Local and State Health Departments. 

Any removal will only be for the contagious period as specified in the school's administrative guidelines. 

Control of Non-Casual-Contact Communicable Diseases 

In the case of non-casual-contact, communicable diseases, the school still has the obligation to protect the safety of the staff and students. In these cases, the person in question will have their status reviewed by a panel of resource people including the County Health Department to ensure the rights of the person affected and those in contact with that person are respected. The school will seek to keep students and staff persons in school unless there is definitive evidence to warrant exclusion. 

Non-casual-contact communicable diseases include sexually transmitted diseases, AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome), ARC-AIDS Related Complex (condition), HIV (Human­immunodeficiency); HAV, HBV, HCV (Hepatitis A, B, C); and other diseases that may be specified by the State Board of Health. 

As required by Federal law, parents will be requested to have their child's blood checked for HIV, HBV and other blood-borne pathogens when the child has bled at school and students or staff members have been exposed to the blood. Any testing is subject to laws protecting confidentiality. 

Emergency Medical Form 

The Ingham ISD Board has established a policy that every student must have an Emergency Medical Authorization Form completed and signed by the student's parent/guardian in order to participate in any activity off school grounds. This includes field trips, spectator trips, athletic and other extracurricular activities, and co-curricular activities. 

The Emergency Medical Authorization Form is provided at the time of enrollment and the beginning of each school year. Failure to return the completed form to the school will jeopardize a student's educational program. 

Medications 

In those circumstances where a student must take prescribed medication during the school day, the following guidelines are to be observed: 

1. Parents should, with their physician's counsel, determine whether the medication schedule can be adjusted to avoid administering medication during school hours.
2. The Medication Request and Authorization Form 5330 Fl, Fla, Flb, and Flc must be filed with the respective building principal before the student will be allowed to begin taking any medication during school hours.
3. All medications must be registered with the school nurse.
4. Medication that is brought to the clinic will be properly secured.
   1. Medication may be conveyed to school directly by the parent or transported by transportation personnel (bus driver and/or bus aide). This should be arranged in advance. A two to four (2-4) week supply of medication is recommended.
   2. Medication MAY NOT be sent to school in a student's lunch box, pocket, or other means on or about the student's person, except for emergency medications for allergies and/or reactions.
5. Any unused medication unclaimed by the parent will be destroyed by school personnel when a prescription is no longer to be administered or at the end of a school year.
6. The parents shall have sole responsibility to instruct their child to take the medication at the scheduled time, and the child has the responsibility for both presentinghimself/herself on time and for taking the prescribed medication.
7. A log for each prescribed medication shall be maintained which will note the personnel giving the medication, the date, and the time of day. This log will be maintained along with the physician's written request and the parent's written release.

Nonprescribed (Over the Counter) Medications 

A physician's prescription order is necessary to allow students to take non-prescription medication at school. 

Sunscreen & Insect Repellent

Sunscreen and/or insect repellent should be applied at home, and are not provided by Heartwood School. Should you wish for staff to re-apply during the school day, you must send in the product from home with specific instructions for application. 

Homebound Instruction

The district shall arrange for individual instruction to students of legal school age who are not able to attend classes because of a physical or emotional disability. 

Parents should contact the school administration regarding procedures for such instruction. Applications must be approved by the building principal. The district will provide homebound instruction only for those confinements expected to last at least five (5) days. 

Applications for individual instruction shall be made by a physician licensed to practice in this State, parent, student, or other caregiver. A physician must: certify the nature and existence of a medical condition; state the probable duration of the confinement; request such instruction; present evidence of the student's ability to participate in an educational program. 

Feeding & Swallowing

While most students can safely tolerate regular food and liquids, there are a large number of students at Heartwood who must receive a modified oral diet and/or tube feedings. The following policy was established to ensure the safety of students at Heartwood, in accordance with best practice research and guidelines.

Students receiving a modified diet and/or tube feedings will have this information reflected in their IEP document.

Heartwood School will accept the results from a recent Modified Barium Swallow Study (MBS} as recommending the appropriate diet level for a student. If no MBS is available, Heartwood will accept a physician's script for a diet level if it aligns with our clinical recommendation, as determined by SLP and RN. If the physician script does not align with clinical recommendations, Heartwood will downgrade to the safest diet level the team recommends and will request an MBS in order to advance the diet. Students who are determined to be unsafe with oral food intake who do not have a feeding tube to supplement nutrition may require a reduced day to ensure safety with nutrition intake while in school. 

Pool Closing Procedures 

In the event that a student has a bowel movement or is sick in the pool, the pool will be shut down for the remainder of the day. Depending on the type of accident, the pool will be either shocked with chlorine or drained. Parents of the student will be notified, and a prevention plan will be considered to address the accident and to determine ways to avoid its reoccurrence. If the student has a BM in the pool more than once, for the safety of all students, an exclusionary decision may be made for a specified amount of time. 

Global Consideration 

All students are individuals in their response to weather conditions. Parents inform us of their concerns and we at school should always note if certain weather situations cause students signs and symptoms of discomfort or distress and be careful not to put them in that situation again. If discomfort or distress is noted, the student should be taken to the clinic immediately. 

Guiding Principles 

Clothing

All students must be adequately clothed when going outside. When outside in temperatures below 50 degrees, coats should be zipped and hats should be worn. When below 40 degrees, mittens and boots should be included in the attire. For a student with asthma, a scarf should be worn. 

Temperature Guidelines

As a basis, use the Wind Chill Chart to guide decisions about going outside, always keeping in mind that these guidelines were set for people who are mobile and active. Additional considerations: 

• Temperatures above 20 degrees would normally be OK for most students if they were outside less than 30 minutes.
• SXI students should not go outside for longer than 5-10 minutes if the temperature is below 30 degrees.
• Restrict children who have a history of being exacerbated by cold weather (such as students with Asthma) to temperatures above 40 degrees.
• Exceptions to these guidelines can be made when approved by the nurse and/or the principal.

IEP Process 

Instruction at Heartwood is individualized by Individualized Education Plan (IEP} goals and objectives. IEP teams determine student needs, identify next steps through goals and objectives, determine a program that will best meet the student's needs, and then identify services and supports that are necessary. IEPs must be revised annually. 

Every three years, the team must also consider whether a re-evaluation is necessary to determine continued eligibility. A Review of Existing Evaluation Data (REED) is conducted to identify assessment needs. If necessary, a Multidisciplinary Evaluation Team (MET) document is completed to identify eligibility as determined by the assessments completed. 

Curriculum 

Students who attend Heartwood School have access to the general education curriculum through the Essential Elements. The Essential Elements reflect standards that connect with those addressed in equivalent grade levels in general education settings but are broken into foundational elements that meet learning needs at a level appropriate for students with significant disabilities. 

We use Unique Learning Systems (ULS) at Heartwood School for all areas of curriculum including Math, ELA, Science, Social Studies as well as adult/transition learning activities. ULS is a curriculum-based assessment that allows you to track students' skills in relation to the core curriculum (state standards) over the course of the year. Unique Learning System provides differentiated lessons and materials that are standards-aligned, so teachers can focus on their students during valuable learning time, and learners can make measurable growth toward state standards. 

Heartwood Staff are trained as Basic Providers for the MOVE program. MOVE is a research-­based program shown to improve functional mobility skills and empower children and adults with severe physical disabilities to better direct their own lives. Implementation of this program enhances the educational day of physically impaired students. Increasing student abilities to functionally mobilize aims to decrease the burden of care for families and other care providers. Increased abilities also bring new opportunities for fuller participation and involvement in family life, school life and integration and inclusion in the wider community. 

Field Trips 

Field trips are academic activities that are held off school grounds. There are also other trips that are part of the school's co-curricular and extracurricular program. No student may participate in any school-sponsored trip without parental consent. 

• Attendance rules apply to all field trips.

Community Based Instruction/Vocational Sites 

CBI/Field Trips are academic activities that are held off school grounds. There are also other trips that are part of the school's co-curricular and extra-curricular program. Parents are asked to provide consent for the year via a permission slip given in the fall. Notification of trips will be given through individual classroom teachers. 

Heartwood School believes many of the skills our students need to learn can best be taught in the community environment. For example, a local grocery store can become a "classroom" where students can learn functional reading skills as they use a shopping list, apply math and money concepts as they count and purchase items, practice appropriate social behavior as they push a shopping cart and wait in line, and many other skills that will be important to their everyday lives in the real world. In order to provide opportunities for students to practice skills in the community, a large part of the program at Heartwood School is centered around this concept. Students from all program levels travel to locations in Mason and the surrounding communities to work on specific functional objectives that are considered an important part of their Individual Educational Plan (IEP). 

Parental support plays a large role in ensuring the success of CBI activities. Parents may be asked to send a shopping list and money to school for student purchases at local stores and restaurants. In addition, a parent's role as "teacher" is certainly recognized as parents can provide many additional experiences for their children within their community. The following is a synopsis of Heartwood School's Vocational programs: 

Pre-Vocational Opportunities

The Pre-Voe program offers students the opportunity to complete simple tasks that build skills that are needed to participate in jobs in the future. These tasks may include matching, sorting, folding, counting, packaging and more. These opportunities are integrated into the curriculum for students beginning in upper elementary and continuing throught the educational experience at Heartwood School. Classroom staff are sually responsible for implementing pre-vocational tasks. 

Vocational Opportunities

The Vocational Program offers students the opportunity to develop work skills within the school building that focus on building student accountability and independence. Jobs may include tasks such as watering plants, collecting/washing/folding laundry, sorting recyclables, shredding paper, delivering items, sorting mail, cleaning surfaces, vacuuming, shopping and more. Students are provided with adult support to provide prompting and support throughout each job. Students earn Tiger Way Tickets for completing tasks. Classroom staff and vocational paraprofessionals work together under the direction of the classroom teacher to implement vocational opportunities and to collect data on independence. 

Supported Employment Program

The Supported Employment Program offers job site opportunities to students within the community with intense support focusing on building independence. Jobs may include cleaning, recycling, greeting customers, laundry and more. Job sites usually include one staff member and one or two students. Classroom staff and vocational paraprofessionals work together under the direction of the classroom teacher to implement vocational opportunities. 

Health Services 

Health Services are provided by a full-time Registered Nurse and available to all Heartwood students. The nurse is responsible for review of all medical and health records, screening for basic immunizations and supervision of the medical/health needs of students. The nurse is also responsible for attending to all emergency situations, accidents and illnesses. 

Music Therapy 

Services are provided by a Music Therapist. This service is provided to all Heartwood students. The music therapist works with each classroom to support a variety of educational goals, including communication, social skills, physical skills and academic learning. The music therapist may also support individual student goals within music therapy sessions. 

Adaptive Physical Education 

Adaptive Physical Education is provided by an Adaptive Physical Education Teacher. This service is provided to all Heartwood students. The APE teacher works with each classroom twice weekly, providing physical movement support through both gym and swim activities. 

Personal Care

Personal Care is provided by classroom paraprofessionals along with the classroom teacher. These supports may include personal care such as toileting and dressing, support for feeding or tube feeding, behavior supports, academic supports, and other needs as they arise. 

Speech & Language Therapy

Speech & Language Therapy is provided by a Speech-Language Pathologist as outlined in the IEP. The SLP assesses the needs of the student and builds an individual therapy program to address needs. The SLP provides direct services to students. In addition, the SLP serves as a consultant to classroom staff, training them in Core Vocabulary, Aided Language Input (modeling) and Alternative Augmentative Communication, and coaching staff to support effective communication throughout the school day. 

Physical Therapy

Physical Therapy is provided by a Physical Therapist (PT) and a Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) as outlined in the IEP. The PT assesses the needs of the students and builds an individual therapy program to address needs. Together, the PT and PTA provide direct therapy services to students. In addition, the PT serves as a consultant to classroom staff, training them in the MOVE program, and coaching staff to integrate physical therapy activities and positions throughout the school day. 

Occupational Therapy

Occupational Therapy is provided by an Occupational Therapist (OT) as outlined in the IEP. The OT assesses the needs of students and builds an individual therapy program to address needs. The OT and COTA provide direct therapy services to students. In addition, the OT serves as a consultant to classroom staff, training them to support students with daily living, fine motor, sensory, feeding, and access needs throughout the school day. 

Social Work Services

Social Work Services are provided by a School Social Worker as outlined in the IEP. The SSW serves as a liaison between home, school, and agencies, and direct services to students with identified social work services. The social worker assists with building and implementing behavior plans and oversees implementation of a school-wide Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports (PBIS} program. The social worker collects and analyzes individual and school­wide behavior data. 

Audiology Services

Audiology Services are provided by an Audiologist as outlined in the IEP. The audiologist assesses students' hearing and makes recommendations for physician referral, if necessary. Parent permission forms are signed each year for audiological testing of students. 

Teacher Consultant Services

Teacher Consultant Services are provided by Teacher Consultants for Visual Impairments, earing Impairments, and Autism Spectrum Disorders as outlined in the IEP. The TC provides direct services and consults with classroom staff to identify strategies and supports necessary to increase student achievement. 

Psychological Services

Psychological Services are provided by a School Psychologist. The psychologist is responsible for evaluating changes in special education eligibility, and interpreting evaluation results. The school psychologist also may consult with staff regarding behavioral and academic interventions and may assist the IEP team in identifying the most appropriate and least restrictive environment for the student. 

Students from Michigan State University, Lansing Community College, the Wilson Talent Center, or local high schools may be referred to us for volunteer work to complete course requirements. This may include internships, student teaching, observations, community service, or community-based instruction. 

Student Activities

Physical Education and Sports 

Heartwood School promotes student physical activity and participation as appropriate for each student's ability. This is done in several ways, including adaptive physical education classes, swim classes, fitness programs and sports sponsored by Special Olympics (which may include basketball, poly-hockey, track and field, bowling, etc.). 

Student Records

The School District maintains many student records including both directory information and confidential information. 

Neither the Board nor its employees shall permit the release of the social security number of a student, or other individual except as authorized by law (see AG 8350). Documents containing social security numbers shall be restricted to those employees who have a need to know that information or a need to access those documents. When documents containing social security numbers are no longer needed, they shall be shredded by an employee who has authorized access to such records. 

Directory Information

Each year, the Superintendent shall provide a public notice to students and their parents of the district's intent to make available, upon request, certain information known as "directory information." The Board of Education designates as student "directory information": 

1. a student's name;
2. address (except for students participating in the address confidentiality program act);
3. date and place of birth;
4. photograph;
5. major field of study;
6. participation officially recognized activities and sports; height and weight, if a member of an athletic team;
7. date of attendance;
8. date of graduation;
9. awards received;
10. honor rolls;
11. scholarships; and
12. telephone numbers only for inclusion in school or PTO directories.

The Board designates school-assigned e-mail accounts as "directory information" for the limited purpose of facilitating students' registration for access to various on line educational services, including mobile applications/apps that will be utilized by the student for educational purposes and for inclusion in internal email address books. School-assigned email accounts shall not be released as directory information beyond this/these limited purposes and to any person or entity but the specific on line educational service provider and internal users of the District's Education Technology.

The Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources will also develop a list of uses for which the district commonly would disclose a student's directory information and develop an opt-out form that lists all of the uses or instances and allows a parent or legal guardian to elect not to have his/her child's directory information disclosed for one (1) or more of these uses. 

Each student's parent or legal guardian will be provided with the opt-out form within the first thirty (30) days of the school year. The form shall also be provided to a parent or legal guardian at other times upon request. 

If an opt-out form is signed and submitted to the district by a student's parent or legal guardian, Ingham ISD shall not include the student's directory information in any of the uses that have been opted out of in the opt-out form. A student who is at least age eighteen (18) or is an emancipated minor may act on his/her own behalf with respect to the opt-out form. 

Parents and eligible students may also refuse to allow the district to disclose any or all of such "directory information" upon written notification to the district within fourteen (14) days after receipt of the district's public notice. 

Directory information can be provided upon request to any individual, other than a for-profit organization, even without the written consent of a parent. Parents may refuse to allow the Board to disclose any or all of such "directory information" upon written notification to the Board. For further informatfon about the items included within the category of directory information and instructions on how to prohibit its release you may wish to consult the Board's annual Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) notice which can be found on the Ingham ISO website.

 The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age certain rights with respect to the student's educational record. 

Other than directory information, access to all other student records is protected by (FERPA) and Michigan law. Except in limited circumstances as specifically defined in State and Federal law, Ingham ISD is prohibited from releasing confidential education records to any outside individual or organization without the prior written consent of the parents, or the adult student, as well as those individuals who have matriculated and entered a postsecondary educational institution at any age. 

Confidential records include test scores, psychological reports, behavioral data, disciplinary records, and communications with family and outside service providers. 

Students and parents have the right to review and receive copies of all educational records. Costs for copies of records may be charged to the parent. To review student records please provide a written notice identifying the requested student records to Alexis Adams. You will be given an appointment with the appropriate person to answer any questions and to review the requested student records. 

Parents and adult students have the right to amend a student record when they believe that any of the information contained in the record is inaccurate, misleading or violates the student's privacy. A parent or adult student must request the amendment of a student record in writing and if the request is denied, the parent or adult student will be informed of their right to a hearing on the matter. 

Individuals have a right to file a complaint with the United States Department of Education if they believe that the district has violated FER PA. 

Consistent with the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA), no student shall be required, as a part of the school program or the district's curriculum, without prior written consent of the student (if an adult, or an emancipated minor) or, if an unemancipated minor, the student's parents, to submit to or participate in any survey, analysis, or evaluation that reveals information concerning: 

1. political affiliations or beliefs of the student or the student's parents;
2. mental or psychological problems of the student or the student's family;
3. sex behavior or attitudes;
4. illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating or demeaning behavior;
5. critical appraisals of other individuals with whom respondents have close family relationships;
6. legally recognized privileged and analogous relationships, such as those of lawyers, physicians, and ministers;
7. religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or the student's parents; or
8. income (other than that required by law to determine eligibility for participation in a program or for receiving financial assistance under such a program).

Consistent with the PPRA and Board policy, the Superintendent shall ensure that procedures are established whereby parents may inspect any materials used in conjunction with any such survey, analysis, or evaluation. Further, parents have the right to inspect, upon request, a survey or evaluation created by a third party before the survey/evaluation is administered or distributed by the school to the student. The parent will have access to the survey/evaluation within a reasonable period of time after the request is received by the building principal. 

The Superintendent will provide notice directly to parents of students enrolled in the district of the substantive content of this policy at least annually at the beginning of the school year, and within a reasonable period of time after any substantive change in this policy. In addition, the Superintendent is directed to notify parents of students in the district, at least annually at the beginning of the school year, of the specific or approximate dates during the school year when the following activities are scheduled or expected to be scheduled: 

1. activities involving the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information collected from students for the purpose of marketing or for selling that information for otherwise providing that information to others for that purpose); and
2. the administration of any survey by a third party that contains one or more of the items' described in A through H above.

The Family Policy Compliance Office in the U.S. Department of Education administers both FERPA and PPRA. Parents and/or eligible students who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with: 

Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue
Washington, D.C. 20202-4605

Informal inquiries may be sent  to the Family Policy Compliance Office via the following email addresses: FERPA@ED.Gov; and PPRA@ED.Gov.

If you have questions about your student's educational records, please contact the Building Principal for assistance.

Access to School Records 

Cumulative records are available for review by parent/guardian after a request has been made at least 24 hours in advance. The principal or designee may be present during the review. Interpretation of these records is the responsibility of the school.

Student accordance records with are Ingham confidential. Parents of students, eligible students, and persons designated in accordance with Ingahm ISD Board of Education Policy 8958.00 as representing the parents of handicapped children, may inspect and review the student's education records upont request. Inspection of student records shall be consistent with Board of Education Policy  892.00.

The school may, without consent of parents or students, release a student's permanent record file to:

• Other resident and intermediate school officials, including teachers, within the district who have a legitimate educational interest.
• The State Superintendent and subordinates,  so long as the intended use of the data is consistent with the Superintendent's statutory powers and responsibilities.
• Officials of other primary or secondary school systems in which the student  intends to enroll, upon request of that district for the complete student record.
• Transportation services contracted by the district.
• Officials of the Michigan Family Independence  Agency investigating an abuse case when, in the judgment of those involved, disclosure to the parent(s) could be a threat to the child's health or safety.

School personnel may not reveal, in any form, to persons other than those listed above, any information contained in school records except:

1. With written consent from the student's parent(s)  or guardian (or the student, if eighteen years or older) specifying record to be released and to whom they are to be released; and
2. ln compliance with judicial order or orders of administrative agencies where those agencies have the power of subpoena. Except in some child abuse cases, parents shall be notified of all such orders and the school's compliance.

Parents or students 18 years of age and not under the care of a guardian have the right to review the contents of their or their child's school records. They also have the right to challenge any school record if they believe that it is inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the privacy or other rights of the student. Parents/guardians who wish to challenge information in the student's school records shall first contact the school principal. If they are not satisfied with the outcome of the hearing with the school principal, they may contact the Director of Special Education; and, if they still are not satisfied, they may appeal to the Superintendent. In any case, parents may write a rebuttal to information contained in the child's school records. Such rebuttals will become part of the record. 

Review of Instructional Materials and Activities 

Parents have the right to review any instructional materials being used in the school. They also may observe instruction in any class, particularly those dealing with instruction in health and sex education. Any parent who wished to review matereials or observe instruction must contact the principal prior to coming to the school. Parents' rights to or review observe teaching materials must and instructional activities are subject to reasonable restrictions and limits.

Procedural Safeguards 

As the parent/guardian of a student with a disability enrolled within an Ingham ISD special education program you will receive a copy of "Procedural Safeguards for Parents of Students with Disabilities" under the Individuals with Disabilities Education and Improvement Act (IDEA). These procedural safeguards outline your rights and responsibilities as a parent/guardian involved with special education and are given to you at least annually. We typically send this home with each student at the start of each new school year. If you would like an additional copy of this document or need assistance in understanding the provisions of IDEA, please contact the Building Principal. 

Student Assessment and Progress Reports 

Progress reports are completed 4 times a year on students' IEP goals and objectives. Progress Reports indicate the status of specific student skills or objectives as listed on the IEP. Reports are distributed to parents/ guardians via Parent Conferences in the fall and spring and by mail in the winter and end of the school year. 

Two Parent-Teacher Conferences are scheduled during the regular school year (October & March) for the purpose of sharing student information and reviewing student progress on specific objectives and skills. The Parent-Teacher Conference is also a good time to discuss any parental concerns. Parents are encouraged to attend scheduled conferences and are not limited to two conferences a year. You or the teacher can request additional meetings or phone conversations. 

In addition to progress reports, Heartwood Students participate in standardized state assessments. Ml-Access is Michigan's alternate assessment system, designed for students with cognitive impairments whose IEP (Individualized Educational Program) Team has determined that the MStep, even with accommodations, is not appropriate. Ml-Access satisfies the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) as reauthorized in 2004 and the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) of 2001 that require all students with disabilities be assessed at the state level. This assessment is required for students ages 9-14 and age 17. 

When you have questions about your student's progress, please call or email your student's teacher. The teacher will arrange a time to discuss any concerns and clarify any uncertainties. 

Limited English Proficiency 

Limited proficiency in the English language should not be a barrier to equal participation in the nstructional or extracurricular programs of the district. It is, therefore, the policy of this District that those students identified as having limited English proficiency will be provided additional support and instruction to assist them in gaining English proficiency and in accessing the educational and extracurricular program offered by the District. Parents should contact the Heartwood Principal at 517.244.1405 to inquire about evaluation procedures and programs offered by the district. 

Meal Service 

Lunch menus are sent home the first of each month. Students may purchase a hot lunch at school or bring a sack lunch from home. Heartwood School contracts with Mason School District to provide food service. Prices for lunch or beverage are determined by the Mason School District Food Services Department each year. 

School lunches must be paid for each day or in advance (by the week). Accurate records are kept by classroom staff. If the student is absent, lunch money paid in advance will be credited to the following day/week. Please do not expect to charge lunches. 

Information regarding free or reduced price lunches is sent home at the beginning of each school year or upon request from the school office. 

Transportation 

Transportation services are available to and from school at no cost to parents. Approval for transportation is the responsibility of the student's resident district special education director. 

Most Heartwood School students are served by Dean Transportation, Inc. (517.319.8300) which contracts with local districts to transport students to Heartwood. Some local districts provide their own transportation services for Heartwood students residing in their district. Students are to follow the same behavioral expectations as in school. Discipline for infractions that occur during students' transport to and/or from school will be determined by the cooperative efforts of transportation personnel, school and home. 

Attendance 

It is imperative that students be in attendance each school day in order not to miss a significant portion of their education. Many important learnings result from active participation in classroom and other School activities which cannot be replaced by individual study.

Attendance is important in the development of a high-quality work ethic which will be a significant factor in a student's success.

Notification of Absence 

Parents must provide an explanation for their child's absence by no later than 8:30 a.m. on the day of the absence or by the following day. They are to call the main office at 517-244-1405 and explain the reason for the absence. If the absence can be foreseen and the "good cause" must be approved by administration, the parent/guardian should arrange to discuss the matter as many days as possible before the absence will occur.

Excused Absences 

Students may be excused from school for one of the following reasons:

• Illness (when frequent or prolonged absences occur, a written statement from a physician may be requested)
• Extreme emergency or death in the family
• School related activities
• Approved activities

Parents/guardians are encouraged to schedule their child's appointments with doctors and dentists during non-school hours to the extent possible.

Students with a health condition that causes repeated absence are to provide the school office with an explanation of the condition from a registered physician. 

Students who are excusably absent for more than 10 days in a grading period, regardless of the reasons, will be considered "frequently absent". If there is a pattern of frequent absence for "illness", the parents will be required to provide a statement from a physician describing the health condition that is causing the frequent illness and the treatment that is being provided to rectify the condition. Without such a statement, the student's permanent attendance record will indicate "frequent unexplained illness".

Truancy 

Unexcused absence from school (truancy) is not acceptable. Students who are truant will receive no credit for schoolwork that is missed. After 10 days of truancy in any grading period, a student will be considered a "habitual truant" which can result in:

• A hearing before a judge in a court of law;
• A report to local authorities concerning lack of parental responsibility in providing proper care and supervision of a child.

Code of Conduct 

A major component of the educational program at Heartwood School is to prepare students to become responsible workers and citizens by learning how to conduct themselves properly and in accordance with established standards. 

Each student shall be expected to: 

• Abide by national, State, and local laws as well as the rules of the School;
• Respect the civil rights of others;
• Act courteously to adults and fellow students;
• Be prompt to school and attentive in class;
• Work cooperatively with others when involved in accomplishing a common goal regardless of the other's ability, gender, race, religion, height, weight, disability, or ethnic background;
• Complete assigned tasks on time and as directed;
• Help maintain a school environment that is safe, friendly, and productive;
• Act at all times in a manner that reflects pride in self, family, and in the School.

Ingham ISD recognizes and protects the individual and legal rights of students regardless of race, religion, sex, economic status, age or disability. Student conduct is under the jurisdiction of program/school staff at all times. The Building Principal has the authority to employ appropriate consequences for unacceptable student conduct in school, on school property or school transportation. 

Dress Code 

• Clothing should always be neat and clean.
• No clothing that displays drugs, alcohol, tobacco products or that is obscene or offensive.
• See-through clothing materials are inappropriate.
• Midriffs should be covered at all times
• No coats, hats, hoods, bandannas or sunglasses allowed during the school day (inside)
• No baggy or intentionally torn pants. Pants are to remain around the waist. If pants tend to be loose and slip lower, a waist belt or suspenders must be used.
• Skirts, dresses and shorts should extend a thumb-length beyond the end of the longest fingertip when the arm is straight at the wearer's side.
• Dress must reflect modesty. No low cut shirts, dresses; no tube tops, tank tops, muscle shirts, half shorts, short shorts, bare-back/halter tops, visible underwear, high-cut (short) skirts or dresses.
• Footwear with a substantial sole is required (e.g. soft-soled slippers or flip-flops are inappropriate). Students in wheelchairs are exempt with approval of administration.
• Dress should be appropriate for the weather and for playground activities.

Student Behavior 

It is the responsibility of Heartwood staff to encourage appropriate behavior by giving students consistent, positive feedback and reinforcement. When inappropriate behavior occurs, a variety of informal techniques can be used to assist the student. In cases of chronic or severe behavior, a meeting with support staff, classroom staff and parents/guardian will be held to determine the necessary interventions. 

Behavior management techniques may include restrictive measure, but this will be addressed through a formal behavior plan that will include parent notification and consent.

Positive Behavior Supports

 It is the responsibility of teachers and administrators to encourage appropriate behaviors and to assist students in the control of inappropriate behaviors. School-wide rules and procedures enable teachers and administrators to ensure consistency and fairness. It is the goal of Heartwood School to provide the most positive and least restrictive procedures appropriate for the student. Positive supports may include verbal praise, token economy, rewards, special activities, etc.

Emergency Seclusion and Restraint 

Ingham ISD abides by the 2017 Emergency Seclusion and Restraint guidelines from the Michigan Department of Education. 

All Heartwood staff are provided awareness training on the use of emergency seclusion and restraint. Those who work directly with students, including teachers, paraprofessionals and ancillary support providers, are provided with comprehensive restraint and seclusion techniques through the Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI) every 18 months. 

Emergency seclusion and restraint are to be used only as a last resort in cases when a student's behavior poses a dangerous threat to himself or others. Seclusion may never be used with preschool students. Documentation forms must be completed in full following each incident of emergency seclusion or restraint and turned in to the office by the end of the day. Parents will be contacted as soon as possible following each incident of emergency seclusion or restraint. 

Student Discipline Code 

It is the school staff's responsibility to provide a safe and orderly learning environment. History has shown that certain student actions are not compatible with a safe" and "orderly" environment. Discipline is within the sound discretion of the school's staff and administration. Due process ensures that disciplinary action is imposed only after review of the facts and/or special circumstances of the situation. Each of the behaviors described below may subject the student to disciplinary action including suspension and/or expulsion from school. 

• Use of Drugs/Tobacco
• Student Disorder 
• Possession of a weapon or use of object as a weapon 
• Purposely setting a fire 
• Physically assaulting a staff member/student or person associated with the district 
• Verbally threatening a staff member/student or person associated with the district 
• Extortion Gambling 
• Falsification of school work, identification, forgery False alarms, false reports, and bomb threats
• Explosives
• Trespassing 
• Theft 
• Disobedience 
• Damaging property 
• Persistent absence or tardiness 
• Unauthorized use of school property 
• Refusing to accept discipline 
• Aiding or abetting violation of school rules 
• Displays of Affection 
• Possession of Communication Devices 
• Violation of individual school/classroom rules 
• Violation of bus rules Disruption of the educational process 
• Harassment 
• Hazing 
• Bullying and other aggressive behavior 
• Possession of a firearm, arson or criminal sexual conduct 

Video recordings on District Property 

The Board of Education has installed video cameras on district property. If a student violated the Code of Conduct and their actions were recorded, the recording will be submitted to administration and may be used as evidence of the misbehavior. Since these recordings are considered part of a student's record, they can be viewed only in accordance with Federal law. 

Suspension and Expulsion 

Suspension is defined as a temporary removal of the student from Heartwood School. Suspension generally refers to a period of 1-10 days. For special education students, total suspensions cannot exceed an aggregate of ten days without an IEP meeting called to determine if the student's placement is appropriate (Ingham ISD, Board of Education Manual). 

Authority to place a student on suspension rests w.ith the building principal. Students who may be a threat to themselves or to the well-being of others and who may not be able to benefit from instruction will be returned home by final decision of  the student's IEP team members. Recommendation for alternative placement may be made.

Two types of suspension may be used at Heartwood School:

1. Suspension from School: Students will not be permitted on school property for the length of the suspension.
2. Emergency Removal: When a student's actions pose a threat, s/he may be removed on an emergency basis for only as long as it is necessary to make arrangements to resolve the threat to safety. The principal will consider whether there is a need for follow-up i.e. disciplinary procedures, meeting with parents, or convening an IEP meeting to review appropriate program placement. 

The following actions may lead to suspension from Heartwood School program:

• Acts against the law
• Acts against school rules
• Harmful or potentially harmful acts against individuals or property
• Disruptive behaviors detrimental to the school program.

Procedures for suspension:

• Inform the student of specific reasons for suspension
• Inform the parent/guardian by phone and home school in writing and indicate the necessary steps to affect the student's return.
• Notify transportation.

Bullying 

It is the policy of Ingham ISD to provide a safe and nurturing education environment for all of its students. This policy protects all students from bullying/aggressive behavior regardless of the subject matter or motivation for such impermissible behavior. 

Bullying or other aggressive behavior toward a student, whether by other students, staff or third parties, including board members, parents, guests, contractors, vendors, and volunteers is strictly prohibited. This prohibition includes written, physical, verbal, and psychological abuse, including hazing, gestures, comments, threats, or actions to a student, which cause or threaten to cause bodily harm, reasonable fear for personal safety or personal degradation. 

Ingham Intermediate School District expects students to conduct themselves in keeping with the levels of development, maturity, and demonstrated capabilities with a proper regard for the rights and welfare of other students, the educational purpose underlying all school activities, and the care of school facilities and equipment. The school district prohibits the bullying of any student(s). 

Personal Property at School 

Classroom teachers may decide appropriate equipment/property the student may bring to school. Items such as toys, electronics, books, etc. can be educationally relevant. In turn, these items may also interrupt the learning process for the student and others. Please check with the teacher before sending items. 

School Related Laws 

Communication Devices 

It is against school policy for students to have communication devices, such as pagers, cellular phones and two way radios, on during school hours. If parents want their child to carry such a device, please communicate this to the classroom teacher. However, the student will be asked to turn it off during the school day and keep it in a specified location. 

Smoking Regulations

Public Act 459 prohibits smoking and chewing tobacco on all school property. This law prohibits the use of tobacco products which can be inhaled, chewed or placed in a person's mouth. Violation of this law is a misdemeanor and punishable by a $50 fine. Students who use tobacco products on school property may receive in-school consequences. 

Weapons, Arson and Criminal Sexual Conduct 

The Revised School Code requires public schools to immediately suspend and begin expulsion proceeding on students who bring a dangerous weapon to school or commit arson or criminal sexual conduct in a school building or on school property. State law defines dangerous weapons as a "firearm, dagger, dirk, stiletto, knife with blade over 3 inches in length, a pocket knife opened by a mechanical device, an iron bar or brass knuckles." If a student brings a weapon to school, police will be notified immediately and the student will be suspended until a Manifestation Determination Review and IEP team can be convened. 

Drugs, Narcotics and Alcohol 

Evidence of use, possession or delivery of alcohol, narcotics, stimulants, hallucinogens, depressants or marijuana is an expellable offense in the State of Michigan and will result in suspension from school. Parents and law enforcement agencies will be notified. Students will be suspended until Manifestation Determination Review and IEP team can be convened. 

Sexual Harassment 

Sexual harassment is a violation of an individual's civil rights and is not tolerated within the school setting, on school property or school transportation. Sexual harassment may include, but is not limited to, verbal harassment or abuse, pressure for sexual activity, repeated remarks  with sexual or demeaning implications, unwelcome touching and sexual jokes. Students, parent or staff who are knowledgable about an offense are expected to report the harassment to the building principal.

Due Process Rights

Students with disabilities are entitled to the rights and procedures afforded by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (1.D.E.A.) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (A.D.A.). 

Search and Seizure

earch of a student and their possessions, including vehicles, may be conducted at any time theif) student is under the jurisdiction of the Board of Education, if there is a reasonable suspicion that the student is in violation of law or school rules. A search may also be conducted to protect the health and safety of others. All searches may be conducted with or without a student's consent. 

Students are provided lockers, desks, and other equipment in which to store materials. It should be clearly understood that this equipment is the property of the school and may be searched at any time if there is reasonable suspicion that a student has violated the law or school rules. Locks are to prevent theft, not to prevent searches. If student lockers require student-provided locks, each student must provide the lock's combination or key to the director. 

Anything that is found in the course of a search that may be evidence of a violation of school rules or the law may be taken and held or turned over to the police. The school reserves the right not to return items which have been confiscated. In the course of any search, students' privacy rights will be respected regarding any items that are not illegal or against school policy. 

All computers located in classrooms, labs and offices of the district are the district's property and are to be used by students, where appropriate, solely for educational purposes. The district retains the right to access and review all electronic, computer files, databases, and any other electronic transmissions contained in or used in conjunction with the district's computer system, and electronic mail. Students should have no expectation that any information contained on such systems is confidential or private.

Review of such information may be done by the district with or without the student's knowledge or permission. The use of passwords does not guarantee confidentiality, and the istrict retains the right to access information in spite of a password. All passwords or security odes must be registered with the instructor. A student's refusal to permit such access may be rounds for disciplinary action.

Students Righs of Expression

The school recognizes the right of students to express themselves. With the right of expression comes the responsibility to do it at appropriately. Students may distribute or display, at appropriate times, non-sponsored, noncommercial written material, distribute and petitions; buttons, badges, or other insignia, clothing, insignia, and banners and audio and bvideo materials. All items must meet school guidelines.

1. A material cannot be displayed if it:
   1. is obscene to minors, libelous, indecent and pervasively or vulgar;
   2. advertises any product or service not permitted to minors by law;
   3. intends to be insulting or harassing;
   4. intends to incite fighting or presents a likelihood of disrupting school or a school event
   5. Presents a clear and present likelihood that, either because of its content or manner of distribution or display, it causes or is likely to cause a material and substantial disruption of school or school activities, a violation of school regulations, or the commission of an unlawful act.
2. Materials may not be displayed or distributed during class periods, or during passing times between classes. Permission may be granted for display or distribution during lunch periods and after school in designated locations, as long as exits are not blocked and there is proper access and egress to the building.